Hadith #7205

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "العاقلُ عَدُوُّ لَذَّتِهِ" which translates to

The intelligent one is the enemy of his delectation.

This enlightening saying holds deep wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their pursuit of righteousness and self-discipline.

Let us first delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (aql) "عاقل" refers to someone who possesses intellect, wisdom, and rationality. This person has the ability to make sound judgments and decisions based on reason and understanding. (aduww) "عدو" means an enemy or adversary, someone who opposes or goes against something. And (ladhdha) "لذة" refers to pleasure, delight, or enjoyment.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185:

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and the ultimate reward that awaits us in the Hereafter. It reminds us that the true purpose of our existence is to strive for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to seek eternal bliss in the Hereafter. The intelligent person recognizes this reality and understands that indulging in worldly desires can distract them from their ultimate goal.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 60:

And whatever thing you [people] have been given - it is [only for] the enjoyment of worldly life and its adornment. And what is with Allah is better and more lasting; so will you not use reason?

This verse emphasizes the ephemeral nature of worldly possessions and pleasures. It urges us to reflect upon the true value of material possessions and encourages us to use our intellect to prioritize the eternal rewards that lie with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The intelligent person understands that seeking temporary pleasure at the expense of their eternal salvation is a grave mistake.

Now, let us reflect on the essence of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense wisdom and knowledge, teaches us that the intelligent person is one who recognizes the potential harm that excessive indulgence in worldly pleasures can bring. They understand that these pleasures can distract them from their spiritual growth, hinder their progress towards righteousness, and ultimately lead them astray from the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The intelligent person, therefore, becomes an adversary to their own desires and inclinations. They exercise self-control, discipline, and moderation in their pursuit of pleasure. They prioritize their spiritual well-being over temporary gratification, knowing that true fulfillment lies in the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their actions and intentions. It encourages us to strive for self-improvement and to be mindful of the choices we make in our daily lives. By embodying the wisdom of this Hadith, we can develop a strong sense of self-discipline and align our desires with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the intelligent person is one who recognizes the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and prioritizes their spiritual growth and ultimate salvation. They become an adversary to their own desires, exercising self-control and discipline. By reflecting on the guidance of the Quran and the wisdom of this Hadith, Muslims can strive to be intelligent individuals who seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) above all else. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives.